Sexual Harassment

The University of Alaska Anchorage is a community that cherishes the free and open exchange of ideas in the pursuit of knowledge. Maintaining this freedom and openness requires the presence of safety and trust and the absence of coercion, intimidation, and exploitation. Therefore, harassment of any kind - particularly sexual harassment - has no place in the University. It subjects its victims to pressures that destroy the conditions necessary for true learning. Faculty and supervisors, the members of the University community who exercise the most authority and leadership, are principally responsible for maintaining a positive, harassment-free learning environment.

Sexual harassment may refer to any unwelcome sexual advance, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Both men and women can be sexually harassed, although women are more often victims of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment often occurs in situations where one person has power over another, but it may also occur among peers. Sexual harassment is a form of misconduct that undermines the integrity of personal, professional, and student relationships. Sexual harassment does not refer to occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature; rather, it is unwelcome, personally offensive behavior that is detrimental to morale.

It is the intent of UAA to take whatever action is needed to prevent, correct, and discipline behavior that violates this policy. If you feel you may be the victim of sexual harassment, talk to someone you trust about the situation. Many departments on campus can help you. The confidentiality of all parties involved in sexual harassment incidents shall be strictly respected insofar as it does not interfere with the University’s legal and ethical obligation to investigate allegations of misconduct and to take corrective action.

Complaints about the behavior of a University faculty or staff member should be filed with the Office of Campus Diversity and Compliance in Administration/Humanities Building 247. Complaints about the behavior of a student should be filed with the Dean of Students Office in Student Union 204.

Sexual Harassment Resources in the Community: